Bahrain protesters clash with security forces

Clashes have become a near nightly event in Bahrain, involving police and mostly Shiite demonstrators demanding greater rights in the tiny, strategically important island nation that is the home of the U.S. Navy's 5th Fleet.

An Associated Press journalist saw police fire tear gas at the Shiite-dominated Sitra area of Bahrain Wednesday night in an attempt to disperse protesters. At least seven people were injured.

Bahrain's majority Shiites began protests in February inspired by other Arab uprisings. Shiites charge widespread discrimination at the hands of Sunni rulers.